Community

Preaching is one of the things that I enjoy most about my calling as a pastor. Sermon writing and delivery really is an art of sorts, but unlike most other creative pursuits, the next time to share is never more than 6 days away. I did not start preaching every week until my early 30’s,…

Election Day is next week and given this is my first time with Bergen UMC in a presidential election I wanted to share a few thoughts here. I love politics, I always have. I don’t love most of the ways that politics normally plays out, especially for our nation’s most influential office. What I do…

Greater Unity: Our New Sunday Morning Schedule Jesus prays for the church in John 17, that we would be completely united so that the world may believe in Christ. It is inevitable for churches with multiple worship gatherings to begin to form separate identities and almost become their own church communities within a church. Many…

We encounter Jesus in unexpected places and people; Don’t let our bias in our hearts blind us to this truth. Matthew 1:1-6 (Jesus’ Genealogy) has several misfits included: prostitutes, adulterers, murderers, evil and corrupt leaders of state, along with very righteous people. What is the genealogy in Matthew teaching us? We’re all broken people –…

As we gather on Sunday mornings to worship, I’m awe struck by the gift of relationships: our relationship with Christ and the great blessing of our relationship with one another. Can you imagine living where there was nobody else to talk to and celebrate and rejoice with? The blessings of family – community – the…

In Matthew 18 Jesus is talking about the importance and power of His followers being connected with other Christians in their faith. Among those words He says, “For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there with them” (vs. 20). I will often point to the importance of what He is…

During the season of Lent we will offer many invitations to gather with others for worship, meditation, and prayer. In addition to our Sunday gatherings, all of our special Lenten weekday offerings are at 7:00 pm. Ash Wednesday Service: Wednesday, February 18 This service will include prayer, music, the imposition of ashes (for those who…

There was a time, earlier in my life, when I fully believed that Jesus was all I really needed. In those days, I had the perfect mix of a strong faith in who Jesus is and a history of difficult relationships with people. I rightly understood the unique way only Jesus could meet many of…

A UMNS Report by Barbara Dunlap-Berg From sea to shining sea, United Methodists are finding special ways to observe Memorial Day in the United States. Here is a sampling of ideas. Pray for all who have given their lives for our freedom. “The major emphasis of the Memorial Day worship time,” said the Rev. Alan…